But punters were still left dangling in the air for 15 minutes before being lowered to the ground.

(Image: BBC)

The scare was captured on a three minute video, posted on Facebook by Leanne Williams with the caption: “Just a warning to anyone who goes to Winter Wonderland (Cardiff) be aware of this ride.

“Watch and see what happens. Scariest moment of my life.”

The clip shows the ride running smoothly until roughly a minute later when two vacant seats start swinging alarmingly.

As they gain momentum, the carriages sway ever more, eventually colliding with those carrying passengers.

Cardiff Council, which organises Winter Wonderland, is believed to have sought assurances from the ride’s operators Sayers Amusements that the incident will not be repeated.

Sayers Amusements, which operates the ride, said there was no fault with the ride, which shut down automatically when the wind got too strong.

A spokesperson: "It took less than five minutes to get all gondolas unloaded.

"No one was hurt as the safety system was working correctly at all times, and a full explanation was given to everyone on the ride, and they were all given a full refund, and all stayed onsite for a while afterwards."